The European Parliament recently held a discussion concerning the burial of Ratko Mladić and the broader issue of glorifying war criminals in Serbia, a topic that has significant implications for Serbia’s candidacy for European Union membership. European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos led the discussion, emphasizing the importance of confronting the past and aligning with European values. Kos highlighted that glorifying war criminals contradicts the principles of the EU, noting that many Serbian citizens reject such glorification and aspire to a democratic and European society.
Kos underscored the EU’s solidarity with the victims of war crimes and their families, reiterating that peace, stability, and progress in the Western Balkans are strategically important for Europe. She pointed out that Serbia, as a candidate for EU membership, has committed to upholding European values and principles. The European Commission has made it clear that the glorification of war criminals and the denial of genocide are incompatible with these values.
The discussion in the European Parliament comes in the wake of images from Mladić’s funeral, which Kos described as disturbing. These images, according to her, highlight a failure to confront the past and contradict the values at the heart of European integration. The presence of Serbian ministers, officials, and military representatives at the funeral, alongside leaders and politicians from the Republika Srpska, was particularly troubling for Kos. She called on Serbian authorities and regional actors to contribute to reconciliation and good neighborly relations.
Despite the troubling images, Kos emphasized that they should not be seen as representative of Serbian society as a whole. She noted that many citizens from Serbia and other parts of the region have contacted her to express their rejection of the glorification of war criminals. Kos acknowledged the presence of young people, entrepreneurs, civil servants, artists, journalists, and other citizens in Serbia who wish for their country to progress and become a free, democratic, and European society. She believes that such a Serbia deserves to have its voice heard, to receive EU support, and to find its place in Europe.
Kos reiterated that the dignity of genocide victims and war crimes is non-negotiable. While Serbia will not be required to renounce its identity or history, it is expected to genuinely confront its past. The European Commission, she assured, will continue to support Serbia’s European path.
This discussion is part of a broader context involving Serbia’s EU candidacy, which has been a subject of ongoing debate. In previous statements, Kos has highlighted the need for true reconciliation and adherence to the rule of law as essential components of the accession process. The glorification of war criminals remains a contentious issue within Serbian society and politics, affecting its relations with the EU.
The European Parliament’s discussion reflects the ongoing challenges Serbia faces in aligning with European values while dealing with its historical legacy. The outcome of these discussions could have significant implications for Serbia’s future in the EU, as the country navigates its path towards membership amidst internal and external pressures.
